Chargers' Melvin Ingram on Uchenna Nwosu 'Has a bright future'

Those that understand what they’re doing when it comes to building NFL teams know that no two things are more important than having a franchise quarterback and being able to rush the passer. And given that L.A. already has half of that equation on lock in 15-year quarterback Philip Rivers, the selection of Uchenna Nwosu was the next best thing. Melvin Ingram is looking forward to the future Nwosu and had some positive things to say about the rookie at media availability.

“He’s fitting in real good. When you come out with us, you have to get up with speed. And, that’s what he did. He stepped right in ready to go. And that’s what it’s all about. He came here from day one wanting to get better. He has a bright future,” Ingram said.

Nwosu posted 169 total tackles (94 solo), 20.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, one interception and 19 passes defensed during his time with USC. He also has the type of explosion and motor than when paired with Justin Jones, Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram could make the Chargers one of the scarier fronts in football.

The 21-year-old LB will primarily line up as a rotational OTTO linebacker to start off, which is currently being played by LB Kyle Emanuel. Nwosu won’t be an immediate starter, and L.A. will likely have Emanuel playing primarily on first down and the former USC product playing on second and third down while he transitions to the NFL level.

Los Angeles will also use Nwosu’s bread and butter off the edge or in different blitz packages to get after the quarterback, which would be the same role as former Charger defensive end, Chris McCain.

Nwosu has the ability to get his hands up to deflect passes which is something he excels at and setting the edge to prevent the outside run. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley will also put Nwosu in zone coverage situations as well, but he still needs to learn to get more familiar playing in man coverage. He has safety instincts as he played the position before converting into an EDGE in college, so it shouldn’t be complex for him.

His outstanding combination of tenacity and athleticism make him a chess piece for Bradley’s defense, and with at least a year or two of development, he is capable of taking over the SAM linebacker position and being a three-down player.